The New England Aquarium is seeking a Research Assistant, Aerial Observer to participate in our aerial surveys for whales, dolphins and sea turtles in outer continental shelf federal waters off Massachusetts and Rhode Island. This area is currently proposed for offshore alternative energy development. Duties will include serving as an observer on all aerial surveys; quality checking data; coordination with the chief scientist and flight crew; and analysis of vertical photographs for the detection and identification of marine mammal and turtle species. The majority of field work will be aerial, although there may be opportunities to get involved in shipboard surveys with collaborators depending on contract opportunities. This is a grant funded staff position with at least 12 months of staffing provided. Additional service may be afforded only if additional grant funding is secured. *Please note the deadline for applications is Friday, September 14th 2018. Applicants who are available to start in mid-October preferred* SCHEDULE Office schedule will be Monday -- Friday, 9:00 AM -- 5:00 PM. Flight days will require irregular hours and some long days. Occasional weekends and holidays will be required. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS 1. Participates in all aerial survey activities, including observer logistics, scientific data collection, monthly reporting, photographic and data analysis, and assistance with monthly reports and final annual report writing as needed. 2. Survey safety equipment and camera maintenance, preparation and in-flight troubleshooting as needed. 3. Follow safe operational requirements for every survey area, maintains flight and data logs, assists data quality checking and assurance, assists summarizing data and reports. 4. Photo-analysis of digital imagery for species detection and identifications, data processing and analysis as needed. 5. Performs other position-related duties, as assigned. QUALIFICATIONS Minimum Training and Experience 1. A or B.S in Biology or related science, M.S with comparable experience preferred. 2. At least one year of marine mammal aerial survey flight time. 3. Good communication and coordination skills. 4. Handling large databases and performing quality checks. 5. Meeting deadlines for data and report deliverables. 6. Photographic skills and photo-identification experience. 7. Attention to detail for proofing and quality checking data 8. Ability to spend long hours performing photo analysis in the office. 9. Comfortable flying in a small aircraft (Can't get motion sickness) 10. Valid driver's license Knowledge, Skills and Abilities 1. Participation in right whale, other large whale, and turtle aerial research programs. 2. Maintaining and purchasing aerial survey equipment. 3. Familiarity with digital photography equipment and field use. 4. Computer skills, especially excel, access, word. For more information and to apply online please visit: http://neaq.applicantpro.com/jobs/ New England Aquarium is committed to diversity in the workplace and is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer as defined by the EEOC.